Roc Parent May/June 2017

MAY/JUNE 2017

DADDY-DAUGHTER DESTINATIONS For Father’s Day and every day

New look and leadership for Genesee Valley Parent Magazine

New features and columns

to Grandmother’s house we go ... bridging the distance

FL IP ME OV ER TO SE MA ET GA HE ZIN NE E W

DEBUT ISSUE!

OVER THE SKYPE

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Welcome to Roc Parent and She Rocs magazine “Where do you want to be in the next 10 to 20 years?” is a popular interview question we’ve all answered during our careers.

And, admittedly, as the new owners of this publication, neither of us had ever dreamed of running a magazine, despite having written for several. Yet, we both are ones to be open to what the universe has in store.

Starting this venture has brought us full circle from where our journey began as friends fresh out of college.

Since meeting as journalists in the newsroom at Wolfe Newspapers — Salley initially as editor of The East Rochester Post Herald and Dresden as editor of The Brighton-Pittsford Post — our careers have taken divergent yet common paths within the broader field of communications.

We’ve both worn many hats over the years, often at the same time (and sometimes just to cover up a bad hair day). And we, therefore, can meld our creative sides with our business Salley Thornton backgrounds to bring our readers a carefully Publisher crafted magazine as well as thoughtfully curated digital platforms.

Our jobs have spanned newspaper, radio, TV, PR, marketing, advertising, the arts, and corporate and non-profit management.

Our roles have included college professor, guest lecturer, volunteer, coach, mentor, comedian, singer, emcee, daughter, wife, mom, step-mom, partner, friend.

When the opportunity arose for us to team up again and merge our experience and passions, we were all in, also combining our love for this community with our love of family.

Through the years we have respected the work of Barbara Melnyk, who as an active mom in the pre-internet era started Genesee Valley Parent magazine as a resource for other parents. After a successful 24 years and 250 Dresden Engle magazine issues, Barbara has retired and we Managing Editor are grateful she has entrusted us with her legacy.

So while we still plan to encounter more adventures in the next 10 to 20 years, we are sure that as publisher and managing editor of Roc Parent and She Rocs we’ll still be giving it our all.

Roc Publishing LLC Roc Parent | She Rocs 2280 East Ave. Rochester, NY 14610 (585) 348-9712 Salley Thornton Publisher Dresden Engle Managing Editor Sara Hickman-Himes Art Director/Designer Renee Veniskey Photographer Lindsay Warren Baker Production Manager Jann Nyffeler Copy Editor Rachel Cucchiara Social Media Coordinator Shawn Gray Lead Videographer/Editor Paul Olcott Distribution Manager and Videographer

COLUMNISTS Dr. Meami Craig, Elizabeth Crony, Dr. Amy Jerum, Deanna King, Dante Worth

FEATURED WRITERS Breanna Banford, Rachel Cucchiara, Dresden Engle, Alexis Ganter, Nadia Ghent, Dawn Kellogg, Carly Lonzcak, Marcia Morphy, Linda Quinlan, Salley Thornton, Renee Veniskey, Deena Viviani

ADVERTISING Alexis Ganter Senior Account Executive Alexis@rocparent.com Jerry Falzone Account Executive Jerry@rocparent.com Andy Lannon Account Executive Andy@rocparent.com

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WRITERS IN THIS ISSUE RACHEL CUCCHIARA is the PR and social media manager for Dresden Public Relations. She studied interpersonal communications at SUNY Brockport, coupled with African-American and gender studies.

Her many years as a YMCA camp counselor and trusted babysitter made her the ideal candidate to write this issue’s article on summer-job tips for teens.

AMY JERUM, DNP, CPNP-PC, PMHS, is a pediatric primary care provider and mother of three boys (ages 11, 11, and 13 – wow, right?). She gets asked a lot of questions about healthcare and parenting and now she’s sharing her answers with Roc Parent readers. She is a pediatric nurse practitioner and pediatric mental health specialist with Panorama Pediatric Group; part of the team at the Complex Care Center; and assistant professor of clinical nursing at the University of Rochester, School of Nursing.

DAWN KELLOGG is the communications manager for Geva Theatre Center. She has been in the arts for most of her life and considers herself very lucky to work in an industry that she loves.

DEANNA KING has been writing her “The Cynical Mother” blog for years and now it will be in print for all parents who need a laugh and need to know they are not alone in the big scary world of parenting. You can hear Deanna each morning as funny female sidekick to Brother Wease on 95.1 The Brew and also yelling at her three children (just kidding), who range in age from 6 to 16.

CARLY LONZCAK holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and PR from SUNY Brockport and is heading to NYC to work in the media industry. In her free time she is usually looking at cute puppy videos on Facebook and Instagram (or getting free food samples at Wegmans).

ALLISON ROBERTS is an actor, writer and visual artist.

She is the founder of the EstroFest comedy troupe and co-director/founder of Impact Interactive, LLC a theater-based training company. Her writing has appeared in Rochester Magazine, City Newspaper and the Democrat & Chronicle. Her artwork includes murals, theater sets, illustration and painting.

RENEE VENISKEY is the owner of immaginé Photography and has been aligned with Dresden since founding the first Young Professionals organization at George Eastman Museum in the early 2000s. She actively shoots throughout the Rochester region and also specializes in portraits and commercial photography.

She holds degrees in photography and graphic design and is a founder of the networking organization Femfessionals.

DEENA VIVIANI works by day as a young adult services librarian at Brighton Memorial Library and by night she writes for children. She has a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Communications from SUNY Brockport and a master’s degree in Library Science from the University at Buffalo. Deena is a fan of traveling, Muppets, Project Runway, and baking gluten-free recipes.

She lives in Rochester with her young daughter, musician husband, and a large number of guitars, computers and, of course, books.

CONTENTS FEATURES

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Teacher Gifts Ideas and inspiration Cover Story Dad Rocks! daddy-daughter destinations for Father’s Day — and every day Arts Camps Summer and the arts — the ideal time to dabble and learn

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Summer Jobs Tips for teens seeking summer employment Long-Distance Grandparents Grandparents and grandchildren bridge the distance to stay close Fairy Houses Get your family close to nature — and magic!

ALSO INSIDE 17 Camp Fair 2017 Photos from the fair 20 Book Nook Reading is out of this world!

22 Ask Dr. Amy 23 Roc Parent Pick Ontario Play & Cafe 27 WXXI Kids In this insert, discover how WXXI helps kids and families learn and explore 44 Community Spotlight Spectrum Creative Arts 46 Calendar Introducing our new curated calendar

Elek Veniskey, 2, enjoys swinging at Ontario Play & Café — this issue’s Roc Parent Pick.

ON THE COVER

Daddy-daughter dates are special times, not just on Father’s Day but all year long.

Matthew Kilmer of Pittsford and his 7-year-old daughter Tatum are all dressed up and ready to make some memories.

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The King a n n a e D By

Last Mother’s Day I got what I asked for … and what I truly needed There are high expectations on Mother’s Day. It’s the one day of the year I am supposed to be honored for renting out my uterus for nine months in exchange for stretch marks and sleepless nights.

Facebook and advertising agencies can be blamed for the hype. Everybody knows the woman who is “hashtag blessed” because her perfect family took her to brunch.

Don’t even get me started on the commercials. In one spot, mom is relaxing on her new patio furniture. In another, she is wearing relaxed-fit, highrise capri pants, a cardigan, and smiling ear to ear. The kids are playing together and willingly sharing toys. She sits at the kitchen table sipping a hot cup of coffee when her husband surprises her with a piece of jewelry designed by Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. A Michael Bolton song plays in the background while the entire family embraces.

This is how last Mother’s Day unfolded for ME: My children — who, on a school day, have to be dragged out of bed like a Kardashian from a plastic surgeon’s office — were awake before the rooster crowed.

They offered to cook breakfast and while that is a sweet gesture, I had no desire to

clean grease from the ceiling. So, we had Dunkin’ Donuts and sandwiches from chef Ronald McDonald. I received a pair of fabulous shoes and an espresso machine from my baby daddy.

My daughter gave me a beautiful card and seeds she planted in a plastic container. “We need to water the plant,” I said a few hours after she presented it to me. My daughter took a deep breath and replied, “But I gave it to you. It’s yours now.”

My son drew a picture of me with a bad haircut and four fingers. I looked like Jim Carey’s character in the movie “Dumb and Dumber” if he lost a few digits in a lawn mower accident.

He redeemed himself with this beautiful note: “I love my grandma, dad, brother, sister and grandpa. But, I love my mom the most. This is my mom, the most beautiful, wonderful and special woman in the world.”

Homemade gifts are truly my favorite.

Yet, the only other thing I really wanted was an hour to run on the treadmill — uninterrupted. My workouts are usually stopped with requests for snacks or a child tattling on another. I have even read my daughter books while running.

My wish was granted. I was 10 minutes into my workout, moving at a rapid pace with an Ace of Base song blasting from my iPod, when I learned the value of the saying “Be careful what you wish for.”

I don’t know exactly what went wrong, but somehow my foot slipped and I lost my balance. I tried grabbing the bar on the treadmill, clawed at the wall, but was unable to recover.

My treadmill is positioned near the wall with a very small path between it and my bed. I landed on my side and was thrown against the wall as the conveyer belt continued turning at clip of 5.8. I was stuck as it chafed the skin off my body (I’ll spare you the “after” photo details).

I screamed, but at first nobody came.

Perhaps, from the other side of the door, it sounded as if I was singing along to a Guns N’ Roses song. Plus, I had asked to be left alone … .

It took three or four cries for help before my son slowly opened the door.

He pulled the safety cord and stopped the torture. He helped me up and said, “I love you, Mom.” And with those three words, I got exactly what I needed for Mother’s Day.

“The only other thing I really wanted was an hour to run on the treadmill — uninterrupted.

Be careful what you wish for.”

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How do you plan to spend Mother’s Day? “We like to get out as a family and take a walk. I love to walk along the canal! Sometimes our canal walks end with a trip to the Pittsford Dairy.

There’s nothing better than ending your walk with amazing ice cream!”

— Carrie, Pittsford “I am hoping for some handmade gifts and to be able to sleep in that day.”

— Kim, Irondequoit “My perfect Mother’s Day would be breakfast in bed (with a mimosa) then sneaking away for a full body massage and then hosting a brunch or dinner for all the moms — me, my mom, and my grandma!!“ — Cat, Spencerport

“Snuggle my two little guys in the morning and then snuggle my own mom in the afternoon. (Shhh, don’t tell them. I want it to be a surprise.)”

— Meghan, Farmington “Looking forward to what my kids plan for me. We usually go out to eat and, best of all, no one complains when I ask for a family picture.

That’s the only present I want these days.”

— Tiana, Rochester “Brunch with the fam — husband, kiddos, and parents. Jines is usually the go-to brunch spot!

— Kristen, Brighton

“I hope to be spending Mothers Day with my husband and boys, hopefully sleeping in, maybe sitting and drinking my entire cup of coffee while it’s still hot, and then getting outside if the weather is nice!”

— Becca, Irondequoit

“Heading to the garden center to pick out the biggest, brightest, hanging baskets I can find, to both get AND give as gifts!”

— Colleen, Victor

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TEACHER GIFTS A teacher simply remembers her favorite things — student gifts she took to heart

By DRESDEN ENGLE and RENEE VENISKEY

From a “World’s Best Teacher” ornament at holiday time to a gift card in June, teachers appreciate when their students and classroom parents say “thank you” with a small gift.

And as teachers look back on the gifts they have received, some items have a backstory and carry extra meaning or sentiment.

Kimberly Marshall, a second-grade teacher at Penfield’s Cobbles Elementary School shared with us a few of the gifts that gave her pause and warmed her heart: A 1910 book of fairytales: from a child who didn’t like fairytales until he learned to love them while a student in her classroom. It was a treasure from his grandma that he wanted to give to her.

Eiffel Tower statue: a gift from a parent whom she casually told she never got a chance to get a souvenir in Paris during a surprise trip from and with her husband.

A blanket: made by a student for her teacher’s daughter. Marshall loves that the student thought of her child and her family.

“Enemy Pie” book: from a parent and student, a now-favorite book Marshall discovered when that parent read it to the class. It has a wonderful story with a great lesson and now Marshall reads it to her students every year (and throughout the book has notes with comments to share with the class).

Ceramic flowers and flower pens: Marshall loves flowers and gardening, and students and parents have given her special gifts to recognize this interest.

A statue of a boy reading: from a family whose son was a non-reader when he started with her and by the end of the year, this was that student — a happy kid who LOVES reading!

A decorative journal: a mom noticed Marshall carried around a bulky old 8

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Kimberly Marshall is a secondgrade teacher with Penfield schools. She treasures the gifts she has received from students and their parents.

At bottom, student Max Veniskey gives his teacher an apple.

PHOTOS BY RENEE VENISKEY

clipboard so she gave her something prettier in which to take notes.

A note from the heart: Sometimes just a note is enough to make her feel she has made a difference. One letter she received last fall from a former student encapsulated the reason she is a teacher and was the best gift she could ever imagine getting.

To quote a small portion of the letter, the former student wrote: “You truly helped me understand the importance of gratitude, having an open mind, and persevering. … Besides pushing us socially, you encouraged us

to push ourselves in our life and told us we could always do more than we think we can.

“I had a learning disability, so before coming to your class I always felt stupid compared to the other kids. You suited my learning style, and helped me feel smart. This led to me giving it my all in the classroom, and I discovered that my learning disability does not make me stupid, just different. … It truly amazes me that even nine years later, I still think about what a major impact you had on my life.”

A-to-Z teacher end-of-year gifts

By CHRISTINA KATZ Tis the season … to thank your child’s teacher for a long, hard-fought, and wellplayed school year. A handwritten note that says, “We appreciate your hard work” is truly all most teachers want.

Yet, how wonderful to also give them a gift of thanks … but, most parents wonder, what do teachers really want?

Here’s an A-to-Z list of thoughtful teacher gift ideas (because they can’t use any more scented candles or pieces of jewelry … and are too nice to tell you that): Christina Katz is a teacher who is married to a teacher and has a child who adores teachers. (Dresden Engle, who is married to a teacher, contributed to this article.)

for the jewel-tone art supplies to enrich to go with her experience A istheforlearning J ispolish mani/pedi gift certificate is for books — for teachers B and the classroom is for kitchen towels or fun kitchen gadgets K for chocolates (the boxed ones that C isfancy for last-minute grablast all summer) of Tim Horton’s gift L isbing cards in the drive-thru is for donations to a need be … and don’t D charity in his or her name (ifforget the office staff and is for erasers, chunky bus drivers) in all shapes E ones is for mall or movie and sizes gift certificates M is for food baskets, for a note of praise with a hometown F perhaps to the principal and N issent Rochester focus superintendent for gift cards, gift gift cards (a G iscards, office supplies, but teacher favorite!) of supplies will do O isanyfortype

for recipe books for busy people R iswritten salts, scrubs, S isorforsoaps for tea (or coffee prefer) T isif they for a big colorful U isumbrella is for volunteering your V time with a smile for a water bottle BPA free, W is(durable, with a fun design) thanks for do for your kids X isallforthey“xtra” for your words of … they mean Y isgratitude so much!

for handmade perennial or vases H isframes P isorforherba potted plant is for Zen moments Z your teacher can have is for quote books your is for iTunes gift cards to with a spa gift card I play games and rock out Q teacher would fancy

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COVER STORY

A dozen daddy-daughter date destinations … for Father’s Day and every day

By DRESDEN ENGLE

Long before a dad walks his little girl down the aisle — and spins her on the dance floor to the sounds of “Daddy’s Little Girl” or “Butterfly Kisses” — dads and daughters have taken many great walks and spins together.

Daddy-daughter dates are important and special times.

Many Rochester-area elementary schools now host sweetheart balls and daddy-daughter dances, and we all “ooh and aah” over Facebook posts of glorious photos snapped by mom before they head out the door.

I personally love this magical night (and plan to volunteer at our school’s dance again this year, to get a peek from the sidelines) although, admittedly, I did most of the work to pull it off (from dress-shipping to ordering corsages).

Heck, I’m behind the planning of most of my family’s daddy-daughter dates. But daddy’s little girl is only little once, so we embrace every opportunity.

Here are some ideas for daddy-daughter activities and adventures … for Father’s Day, special weekends, or any day.

Breakfast out.

Test-drive diners or cafes until you discover your faves.

Visit the zoo.

Decide in advance each of your five favorite animals you want to spend time seeing and learning more about.

Go to new heights.

Test your aerial skills side-by-side on the indoor climbing walls at Rock Ventures in Rochester, the Aerial Adventures at Bristol Mountain (rope ladders, zip lines, tightrope walks), or hot-air balloon rides over Letchworth State Park.

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Matthew Kilmer of Pittsford with his three daughters, all dressed up and ready for a daddy-daughter date. From left are Tatum, 7, Linden, 8, and Marin, 10.

PHOTO BY RENEE VENISKEY

Daddy and Marin pose for a photo before heading out for some family fun.

Short road trips.

Pick nearby towns you’ve never been to, jump in the car, and go.

Make it scenic and hit the Finger Lakes region or make it fact-finding and hit small historical museums like the Jell-O Museum in Leroy, N.Y.

These fathers’ favorites We asked a few dads to tell us their favorite outings and activities with their daughters:

Go fish (and skip some rocks) Dad can hook the worms if she doesn’t want to, but she just might surprise you … and then have contests skipping rocks across streams and lakes.

Experience local festivals.

Rochester is often called “the Festival City” since we host so many stellar ones. In just five months’ time, May through September, we have Amusement park romps. (in chronological order) the Lilac Days spent at amusement parks are magical memories in the mak- Festival, Fairport Canal Days, ing. Also hit the waterpark at Seabreeze, Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival, Corn Hill Arts Festival, Park Darien Lake, and Roseland Waterpark — suit up and scream all the way down! Avenue Summer Arts Festival, Puerto Rican Festival, Memorial Art Gallery’s Miniature golf.

Clothesline Festival, and the Rochester Try a new course within a 20-mile Fringe Festival ... plus several smaller radius every time you go. Rochcommunity and arts festivals in between. ester even boasts the oldest mini-golf Take her out to the ball game. course in the country — Whispering Root, root, root for the home Pines in the Seabreeze neighborhood, team as you cheer on the Red which has operated since 1930.

Wings (baseball) and Rhinos (soccer) Historical landmarks. this summer … and eat your way The homes of George Eastman through the stadium experience. and Susan B. Anthony are National Historic Landmarks located right in Writer Christina Katz (who tries not to dance a jig after her husband and our city … learn all you can about these daughter leave for some together time) fascinating folks who changed the way contributed to this article. we see and experience the world.

Day hikes.

We are in hikers’ heaven geographically —with paths along a Great Lake, the Erie Canal, the Genesee River, and the Finger Lakes, plus the Grand Canyon of the East (Letchworth State Park), Chimney Bluffs State Park, and town and county parks.

Tips: wear two pairs of socks and sturdy shoes and bring Band-Aids, trail mix, and water.

Outdoor concerts.

Pack a picnic (and maybe earplugs) and hit small concerts at town parks are big-name outdoor shows at CMAC in Canandaigua or Darien Lake.

Matthew Kilmer and 8-year-old daughter Linden.

Paul Olcott of Penfield and his daughters Aurora, left, and Aria fish on Lake Ontario. PROVIDED PHOTO

Paul Olcott, Penfield “Seabreeze Amusement Park, the movies, tubing on the bay, fishing at Webster Park or the Adirondacks, and building campfires and roasting marshmallows.”

Kyle Ganter, Irondequoit “Having our son first, I’ve had a few years of roughhousing, wrestling, and hanging with him in my workshop. Now that our daughter is almost 2-years-old, I’m actually looking forward to tea parties.”

Mark Eidlin, Pittsford “My 16-year-old Amanda and I have had a formal daddy-daughter date every year since she was two. We get dressed up for dinner at the Genesee Valley Club and join the rest of the dads and girls on the dance floor. My favorite memory is when she was so small that during the limbo she just walked under the stick.”

Brock Thrasher, Rochester “A day at Seabreeze Amusement Park or a weekend camping at the Thousand Islands.”

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Summertime …

oh, the arts are rich, and your camp options good lookin’

Summer camp is the ideal time for your child to experience the arts

By ALLISON ROBERTS

When I was a kid, I never heard of summer camp.

I played kickball, wrote and illustrated my own books, and tried to talk my mother into buying Kool Pops.

Both of my parents were professional visual artists, so when I was drawing a character who looked more like an octopus then a human being, I could ask for guidance. It was like having a private art camp in my house.

Today, a multitude of summer camps are available in Rochester, covering all interests. And luckily for those kids who don’t have professional artists for parents, there are numerous arts-based camps to choose from as well.

Summer is the ideal time for your child to sample the arts, with camp sessions offered for one week or a few weeks.

Here are a few options:

MUSIC Rochester and music are synony-

mous … and you can even experience Eastman School of Music as part of summer camp.

Eastman Community Music School I know what you may be thinking: “Wow! The Eastman School? That’s pretty lofty!” And yes, Eastman does have a highly established teaching staff, and numerous famous musicians have walked their halls, but the Eastman Community Music School is surprisingly accessible.

“Excellence should not be confused with elitism: we give the highest quality education to students of all ages, abilities, and levels, and in return, hope that our excellence inspires students to match that quality with their effort,” said Petar Kodzas, assistant professor of 12

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Summer @ Eastman offers youth the top talent and perspective of the Eastman School of Music while being surprisingly accessible with diverse offerings. PROVIDED PHOTO

chamber music and community outreach program coordinator.

The Eastman Community Music School offers residential and day-camp programs for students in grades 6-12.

Non-residential programs include Instrumental Jazz, Wind Ensemble Workshop, and Electronic Music and can be combined with University of Rochester summer programs. Residential programs include Eastman@Keuka (an international music program for students grades 6-9 at Keuka College), and Music Horizons, which offers the “taste of college” for advanced high-school musicians.

Hochstein School of Music and Dance Hochstein offers Arts in Action summer camps for kids ages 4 to 10. Children are not required to have previous experience.

Each session has a specific theme and concludes with a performance.

Canalside Music Together Canalside is an internationally recognized early childhood music and movement program with a six-week summer semester filled with singing, dancing, and learning.

“We’re research-based, so we know our stuff and we’re good at what we do,” said Esther Winter, owner and center director.

“But we’re also down-to-earth, accessible, and all about having a good time. It’s a balance that makes us both serious and fun. We’re serious about having fun!”

DANCE

Does your child tap dance on your kitchen counter? Pirouette while brushing their teeth? Do the Dolphin in the reception area of the dentist’s office? Well, read on.

Garth Fagan Dance’s 2017 Summer Movement Institute The Tony Award-winning Garth Fagan

and his dance troupe have performed throughout the world yet still offer a summer workshop right here in Rochester.

The workshop includes classes in technique, dance philosophy, composition, and repertory for students ages 13 and up.

THEATER

Is your child a bit of a ham? Does she create costumes out of bed sheets and the stuffing from inside your couch cushions?

Channel that creative energy into an appropriate camp, or you might find that they’ve created a theater on the top of your car.

TYKEs (Theatre Young Kids Enjoy) TYKEs KidStage at Camp Sisol offers kids entering grades 3 to 6 the chance to perform full productions over the summer.

TYKEs programs are staffed by experienced theater professionals, including a choreographer and music director.

“We provide solid theater training so kids learn to be strong actors, but without pressure,” said TYKEs founder/director Freyda Schneider. “Theater can be hard work, but we present it in a way that’s truly joyous and enriching. In a matter of days, you can see kids’ confidence and self-esteem really soar as they master their roles.”

Drama Kids International Drama Kids acting program is internationally known for its creative drama curriculum, geared toward children and teens. Choose from two Drama Kids Summer Camps for students ages 4 to 17 at either First Presbyterian Church in Pittsford ( June 26-30) or Roberts Wesleyan College in Chili ( July 24-28).

Half-day or full-day options. At the end of the week, campers will present a performance.

Webster Theatre Guild The Summer Youth Theater Experience offers theater programs for children in grammar school through high school, focused on many aspects of theater including auditions, blocking, and acting. The camp culminates with finished productions based on grade level.

A Magical Journey Thru STAGES Summer Camps Performers in grades 1 to 12 have the opportunity to focus on their singing, dancing, and acting skills, while working as a team to create a final show together.

Each camp session concludes with a full performance at STAGES, located on the fifth floor of Auditorium Center.

RAPA summer campers prep for a production of “101 Dalmations.” PROVIDED PHOTO

INTEGRATED PERFORMING ARTS Spectrum Creative Arts Spectrum’s mission is to create exceptional learning experiences for individuals of any age and ability level.

A one-week summer camp, titled Creative Crusaders, offers musical warm-ups, theater games, scenery building, and other fun activities. The final performance combines art, music, and dance.

RAPA Summer programs at Rochester Association of Performing Arts (RAPA) include 40 performance opportunities, and every child, regardless of age, gets the opportunity to be on stage! All performances are held at Kodak Center for Performing Arts, 200 W. Ridge Rd. Cobblestone Arts Center Through the “Celebration of Youth,” summer program, talented teens work alongside kids with disabilities, inviting them to participate in music, visual arts, theater and dance.

WRITING Writers & Books If your child gets jazzed while reading, writing, or making movies on an iPhone, Writers & Books has summer programs for him or her. SummerWrite 2017 has close to 70 weeklong

programs and workshops for kids ages 5 to18 that support the reading and writing skills kids learn in school.

“We have camps focused on The Magic Tree House and Mo Willems to Percy Jackson and Harry Potter,” said Sally Bittner Bonn, director of youth education.

“We even combine cooking and horseback riding with creative writing. There really is something for almost every kid.”

VISUAL ARTS

Wondering if you have a budding Pablo Picasso or Frida Kahlo in your home? I’ll give you a hint: if they started drawing on your walls with spaghetti sauce as a toddler, you probably have a visual artist on your hands.

The Memorial Art Gallery The MAG offers summer camp programs for kids ages 6 to 12 in drawing, painting, sculpture, technique, and strategy.

Animatus Studio Here’s an opportunity for your child to learn about animation — ­ traditional, cutout, and clay — taught by professional animation staff. Full-day camps are available on Wednesdays or Thursdays in August.

Flower City Art Center Youth ages 7 to 10 can experience camps in ceramics, printmaking, and sketching and journaling.

To cover all the summer camps offered in Rochester, I’d need an entire magazine. As an artist who acts, directs, draws, paints, and more, I encourage you to sign up your child for one of the many enriching arts-based camps. Here’s to a creative summer!

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2017 CAMP FAIR Thanks to the thousands of families who joined us for the 23rd Annual Camp & Summer Activity Fair at Eastview Mall. The Camp Fair is a once-a-year opportunity to visit with more than 80 area and national camps. From preschool activity day camps to teen sleepaway camps we had something for everyone! Enjoy our Virtual Camp Fair online at RocParent.com

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Summer’s more than fun in the sun

Tips for helping your teen find a summer job they’ll enjoy discounts. If you’re closer to Canandaigua, check out Roseland Waterpark for a summer gig.

By RACHEL CUCCHIARA and CARLY LONCZAK

Looking to get your teenager away from the screens and electronics this summer?

A summer job is a good way to gain real-life skills, structure, and empowerment … and, of course, make some money to sock away.

In the Rochester area, there are employers looking for summer help to assist them during their busiest season.

But first up, here are two things to keep in mind to ensure the employment process goes smoothly: 1. Get a work permit If your teen is under 18, a work permit is necessary. Most employers will assist your teen in this process, providing the necessary paperwork.

The New York State Department of Labor’s requirements for obtaining a work permit include proof of age and an up-to-date physical, so have these documents ready before applying for jobs.

2. Match your interests to your job This may be your teen’s first glimpse into the world of work and we, as parents, want them to take on their new responsibility in stride. However, since teens are relinquishing their summer vacation, they should enjoy the experience. In considering summer-job options, talk with your child about jobs that match his or her interests.

Whether he or she is into sports, animals, nature, reading, or working with children, many businesses and organizations in the Rochester area can provide a job matching your teen’s interests. Here’s a sampling of summer jobs options to explore:

RIDES, SLIDES, AND GAMES

Seabreeze Amusement Park defines summer fun and your teen could enjoy the fun every day. This combo amusement park and waterpark offers a variety of positions — if your teen is a bit of a thrill seeker, a ride operator or game operator 16

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GOIN’ CAMPING

amp the YMCA’s C Counselors at they love h ow how muc Arrowhead sh bs — spelling out Y-M-C-A jo PHOTO their summer pillow. PROVIDED ng pi m ju a atop

TIONS: MER JOB OP OTHER SUM ding, nters (lifeguar • Town rec ce p counselor) summer-cam d lawn mowing g an • Landscapin ncluding mini golf) (i • Golf courses d food service an s n • Concessio ks at ballpar kets and farm mar • Local farms

could be a good fit for them. There are also a variety of food-service jobs within the park.

If your teen is a good swimmer and likes spending time in and around water, then they might wish to get certified to be a lifeguard or waterpark attendant. The YMCA of Greater Rochester offers classes for certification.

While he or she will be outside in the sun (and rain), the job perks include free rides and slides, crew parties, and incentives and

YMCA of Greater Rochester Camps a good fit for a teen who likes younger kids and is looking for an engaging environment with an opportunity to learn and grow.

Whether interested in adventure courses, arts and crafts, sports, waterfront activities, science, or hiking, the YMCA has a variety of positions available for your teen at one of many YMCA day-camp locations in the Rochester area — which span eastside to the westside from Pittsford to Hilton, and south to north from Rochester to Webster.

KIDS ROCK

If your teen enjoys working with children but is looking for something that has more flexible hours, then finding a job as a babysitter or nanny might be for them. However, this type of responsibility, requires a certification in babysitting before applying for the position.

There are in-person and online classes offering certification through the American Red Cross and in-person classes through town communityeducation programs. The in-person classes may be more beneficial as they provide emergency training, such as what to do when a child is stung by a bee or has an asthma attack.

GET THE SCOOP

Ice cream is synonymous with summer.

Local ice cream parlors include Abbotts, Bruster’s, Shark’s, Rita’s Italian Ice, Twisters, Wickham Farms, and LuGia’s, plus all the froyo joints. (Your scooping arm will be stronger than ever … and your customerservice skills getting polished will be the sprinkles on top!)

How do you welcome the springtime?

“I shake the winter blues by getting outside every chance we get — break out the sidewalk chalk, sandals, and a margarita!”

— Cat, Spencerport “I open the windows and let fresh air in! There’s yard clean up and kids riding bikes and scooters!”

— Kristen, Brighton

“We just love opening up the windows and getting some fresh air. The boys are so excited that we now have a big driveway and a cul-de-sac so they get out their electric go-carts, scooters and bikes and make a track out of construction materials left over from building our new house.”

— Melanie, Webster

“I make a list of all the home and lawn projects I want to complete this spring/summer, knowing full well we will probably only do 20 percent of what’s on the list.”

— Meghan, Farmington “We are waiting to spend more days outside!”

— Kim, Irondequoit “I shake off the blues with spring cleaning — clean out the garage and air out the house!”

– Carrie, Webster “Honestly, I’m looking forward to a big spring clean and getting rid of a lot of the clutter around my house. I want to be more mindful of things I buy and accumulate going forward.”

— Tiana, Rochester “When spring finally rolls around in Rochester (you know, in July), I like to treat myself with a spring pedicure. My toes hibernate during the winter so it’s nice to indulge and have them ready for sandals.”

— Carrie, Pittsford “I change out my shower curtain and bath accessories … gives me a morning reminder of the brighter days that are finally here.”

— Colleen, Victor Roc Parent

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Through the Facetime and over the Skype, to Grandmother’s house we go …

How grandparents keep their far-away grandchildren close

By MARCIA MORPHY

When a baby is born into the world, so are grandparents.

But if your grandchildren happen to live in another city, sometimes hundreds or even thousands of miles away, you may find yourself with measures of sadness at not being there for those milestone moments — that first smile, first step, first haircut … that first everything.

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to stay connected. When my four-yearold grandson Brennen says, “I love you, Nana,” from his home in Pittsburgh, Pa., or his baby brother Bryce spirals into random fits of giggles hearing my voice on the phone, there’s a joy that transcends our distances apart.

Like a lot of grandmothers, Joanne Stogner of Penfield doesn’t get to visit her granddaughter as often as she’d like.

“Eden lives in Sierra Vista, Ariz., with my son and daughter-in-law, Kyle and Wendy Kulp, so I only see her once a year when she comes to stay with me each summer for six weeks.”

Stogner remains close to Eden through technology, as much as the 15-year-old will allow. “Eden is in her independent streak,” she said. “Sometimes I get oneword text messages, but she does create these amazing videos of herself with friends where I get to catch up.”

Trish Harren of Rochester also has long distance relationships with her four grandsons: Zachary, age 6, and Alex, age 4, who live in Sunnydale, Calif., and Max, age 5, and Oliver, age 2, from Allentown, Pa. “My son and his wife, Matt and Ann, 18

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Video chats are one of best ways for longdistance grandparents to keep in touch.

Grandparents going the distance Here are some ways to stay connected despite the miles between you: Make memories Record a favorite story for your grandchildren using the site astorybeforebed. com using your computer, iPhone, or iPad.

Snail mail Send them selfaddressed postcards and ask them to be your pen pal.

Magazine fun Get them subscriptions that will make them think of you (and thank you) each time they arrive in the mail, such as Thomas & Friends, Highlights, Jack & Jill, or National Geographic Kids.

live on the West Coast in a different time zone. So, we arrange a video chat on Saturday mornings where we visit the boys while they are having breakfast.

“It amazes me how they really get the

Build it Purchase identical craft sets (i.e. Legos, Boondoggles, model airplanes) and work on them together via Skype.

concept of talking on a video screen,” Harren said. “Even Oliver, our youngest grandson, says ‘Nana, Nana, Nana,’ and although our conversation is limited, it still is a totally immersive and rewarding visit.”

Jim Murphy of Lima connects with his Brighton-based 11-year-old granddaughter Clara-Zofia Gawlowicz through visits and phone calls.

“We were retired before Clara was born,” Murphy said, “and it was like a rebirth hearing her ask questions like ‘What makes the sky blue?’ You have to be proactive in their lives and stay connected.

“Clara and I bond over simple things — walking in the woods, visiting the horses in the barn, creating projects in the basement. It’s becoming a reciprocal relationship where she teaches me things, too, and we get to learn from one another.”

Linda Quinlan of Irondequoit stays connected with her two-year-old granddaughter Ava Reese, through FaceTime.

“My daughter Emily and her husband, Nic, live in Atlanta, and we visit each other several times a year so Ava has been to our house quite a bit.

“During our chats, Ava just wants to see the dog and cat and then runs away,” Quinlan said, with a laugh. “There’s always a sense of sadness at grandpar-

enting because you miss those little moments when you want to be there physically. But luckily her parents keep us connected.”

Ellen Konar of Pittsford agrees that one’s children are “the gatekeepers” to the grandchildren.

“Our daughter Nina and her husband, Kwaku Essel, who live in South Orange, N.J., keep us and Nathaniel’s grandfather in Africa connected to our two-yearold grandson through photos and Google memories and chat,” she said.

The Konars visited grandson Nathaniel frequently during his first few months of life and he spent a week last summer at their home.

“They get to know you without parental interference and it’s important that Nathaniel spend time with just us, to learn our stories,” said Konar.

“Kids can never get enough unconditional love — and the more people who think they are amazing and wonderful, and will listen to and want to play with them, the better off in life they will be.”

There’s a joy that transcends distances apart.

Ellen Konar of Pittsford with her 2-year-old grandson, Nathaniel, who lives in New Jersey. They use Google Chat to stay in touch. PROVIDED PHOTOS

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Reading is out of this world Astronauts and spaceships and asteroids, oh my!

Celebrate National Space Day (May 5) with these space-age reads.

AGES 5-8 To the Stars: The First American Woman to Walk in Space

By DEENA VIVIANI

AGES 4-7 Space Shuttle Blasts Off! Written by Peter Bently and illustrated by Louise Conway

When a spaceship full of panda bears heads into space to collect a broken satellite, they are surprised by something else instead. Key space travel words are highlighted, and a basic space shuttle diagram is provided. Experience science and science fiction in this picture book mash-up. (QEB, 2015, hardcover, $14.95)

Written by Carmella Van Vleet and Dr. Kathy Sullivan and illustrated by Nicole Wong Make goals and follow your dreams. That is how Kathy Sullivan became one of the first six women to train with NASA. This inspiring picture book tells her story alongside realistic watercolor and ink illustrations, and offers additional information on female NASA trailblazers in the Author’s Note.

(Charlesbridge, 2016, hardcover, $16.95)

AGES 10-14 Hidden Figures Young Readers’ Edition

AGES 10-14 Lost In Outer Space: The Incredible Journey of Apollo 13

Despite facing discrimination because of their race and gender, four African American women provided key mathematical calculations that helped NASA send astronauts into space for the first time. The young readers’ edition of this bestselling nonfiction book tells the same story of these strong, brilliant women in abbreviated, accessible format.

(Harper, 2016, hardcover, $16.99) May/June 2017 RocParent.com 20

On April 13, 1970, three astronauts prepared for the third mission ever to touch the moon’s surface. Then there was an explosion on their spaceship. Focusing on Mission Commander Jim Lovell, this non-fiction account of the Apollo 13 rescue reads like a sci-fi thriller. Readers interested in more information can listen online to the actual dialog between NASA’s Mission Control and the astronauts, which the author used in part to write this book. An emotional account enhanced with photographs of the key players. (Scholastic, 2017, hardcover, $12.99)

By Margot Lee Shetterly

By Tod Olson

Teen Book Fest is Saturday, May 20, at Nazareth College The annual Teen Book Fest will take place 8:30—5 p.m. at Nazareth College, 4245 East Ave. in Pittsford. The event is and open to the public.

Meet the authors of these Young Adult books, and many more: • The Blood Between Us

by Zac Brewer • A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas • The Diviners by Libba Bray • Fat Angie

by E.E. Charlton-Trujillo • Honor Girl

by Maggie Thrash • Labyrinth Lost

by Zoraida Córdova • Melt by Selene Castrovilla • Pretty Little Liars

by Sara Shepard • Snow Job by Charles Benoit • Still Life With Tornado

by A.S. King • We Are the Ants

by Shaun David Hutchinson • The Wrath and the Dawn

by Reneé Ahdieh

AGES 10-18 Astronomy Lab for Kids: 52 Family Friendly Activities

By Michelle Nichols

Six units including “Observing,” “Light, Motion, Gravity,” and “Seeing Stars” encompass the 52 projects star-seeking kids and teens can do.

Each lab lists the time it will take to complete, the materials needed, safety tips, set-up hints, instructions, photographs, and scientific facts. Many labs can be done with materials found around the home for easy and educational fun with the whole family. (Quarry, 2016, paperback, $24.99)

AGES 12-18 Ask the Astronaut By Tom Jones Told completely in Q&A format, this reference is a must read for those interested in the nitty-gritty of space travel.

Answered conversationally by a NASA astronaut and space walker, the author answers burning questions like, “Why is duct tape important in space?” and “Is astronaut training fun?” Black-and-white photographs enhance the text and an index is included for those doing research. (Smithsonian Books, 2016, paperback, $12.95)

AGES 12-18 Learning to Swear in America

By Katie Kennedy

Yuri, a seventeen-year-old Russian physicist, travels to America to help NASA save the world when an asteroid is found heading directly for California. Armed with science and math brilliance, but not much in terms of social skills, Yuri meets Dovie, who helps him figure out the right reasons to save humanity. This humorous story with a unique hero makes this teen novel a survival story with laughs and heart. (Bloomsbury, 2016, hardcover, $17.99)

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Ask Dr. Amy CARING FOR YOUR KIDS

Hey, Mother Hover, land the helicopter already As a pediatric primary care provider and mother of three boys (ages 11, 11, and 13 – I know, right?), I get asked a lot of questions about healthcare and parenting. Here is a recent favorite:

good, more is better. does not bode well for developing Unfortunately, in many resiliency. Kids learn from trial cases, more is NOT betand error. ter – hence the idea of It’s tempting to give your the helicopter parent as child everything, especially a negative. Shocker, I if you felt you were denied Dear Dr. Amy: A friend called me know. If our kids grow as a child. Please don’t. a “helicopter parent” like it was a bad up never facing adversity You’ll end up robbing them thing. What is wrong with being there or challenges, they won’t of feeling successful on their for my child? know how to cope when own or learning valuable — Mom to Darling Daughter the stakes are higher or if lessons from their mistakes. there is no one there to clean Ultimately, this is the kind of stuff Dear Mother Hover: First, let me say up their mess. they will talk to their therapist about. And that there is nothing wrong with providing A recent study from our neighbors be prepared, they will expect you to pay for a supportive and loving environment for at the University of Buffalo looked at the session. your child. In fact, it’s great! whether too much hovering can be a Remember, if we try too hard to make However, if this looks essentially like bad thing. They found that while going sure nothing happens to our kids, nothing continuing to carry your kid around in through very tragic events does not con- will happen to them. a Baby Bjorn when she is 12, you might tribute to one’s long-term resilhave a problem with being overly ience, having no difficult Amy Jerum is a pediatric nurse practitioner protective. experiences also and pediatric mental health specialist with While we’ve discovered the Panorama Pediatric Group. She also is an benefits of being a present assistant professor of Clinical Nursing with parent and nurturing our kids, like the University of Rochester School of Nursing many other things, we’ve super… and a fun and tired mom of three boys ages sized our efforts. Many have 11, 11, and 13. taken active parenting to an Olympic level, sub“While we’ve discovered the benefits of being a present scribing to the parent and nurturing our kids, we’ve super-sized our edict that if efforts. … Remember, if we try too hard to make sure nothing some is

happens to our kids, nothing will happen to them.”

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A ROC PARENT’S PICK Ontario Play & Cafe Roc Parent Heather Nolan of Webster is shares her pick for family fun — Ontario Play & Café in Scottsville.

WHAT IS ONTARIO PLAY & CAFÉ:

• A Rochester-based family business • A 14,000-square-foot play center with café for children ages 10 and younger plus their parents, grandparents, or sitters for fun, hands-on, and open play.

• Café seating is the centerpiece for adults, where they can easily watch their children in all the surrounding play areas.

• The focus is to let children “explore naturally” on their own, letting them take the lead to learn through play.

Unstructured free playtime helps children to develop creative ideas as well as independence and confidence.

• Non-electronic activities include construction play (giant foam blocks), water play (large play table where you can fill, pour, drain), room for infant and toddlers (padded and semienclosed), ride-in cars (push, pull, pedal), oversized swing ABOUT ONTARIO (enclosed for several kids to PLAY & CAFE: enjoy together), and indoor Where: 1861 Scottsville playground with slides.

Road, Henrietta.

• Great for parent and Cost: $7.50, children children fun, play dates, 1 year old; $11.50, children cabin fever, social skill2 to 12; $3, people older building, grandma and than 13; free, babies grandpa time. (younger than 1) with a WHY SHE LIKES IT: sibling’s paid admission.

• Parents can relax while Promotions often available kiddos play! on website or Facebook • Open environment lets you page. Multi-visit bundle see your child from almost prices available. anywhere.

Hours: • Healthy food options —even 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondaythe pizza is made from Thursday scratch — plus healthy 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and drinks and snacks.

Saturday • Safe environment with lots 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday to do in one place.

Contact: (585) 434-2720 • Friendly customer service, Learn more: clean, and well kept. ontarioplay.com • Cool stuff I also noticed they have — coffee espresso bar, free wifi, and a Mother’s Room with comfy chair for nursing.

Heather Nolan of Webster enjoys lunch at Ontario Play & Café with her 3-yearold daughter Janelle, and family friend, 2year-old Elek Veniskey of Penfield. PHOTOS BY RENEE VENISKEY

WHAT THE OWNERS SAY ABOUT IT:

• We designed a place families would love to go all year long, while feeling welcome, comfortable, and safe.

• The variety of activities is physical, social, and sensory.

• We chose equipment thoughtfully, having the gradual development of children including fine- and gross-motor development, hand-eye coordination, social interaction, role play, and imagination.

• Healthy food is as important to us as quality of play. At Ontario Cafe, we offer only house-made dishes made from fresh ingredients. Nothing is fried or over-processed (no preservation and nut-free).

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Rochester native blends a love of nature with a touch of

Magic

By DAWN KELLOGG

Take a hike in the woods or along a secluded path and you might come across a clever fairy-house creation, crafted from items found in nature.

Author and illustrator Tracy Kane’s award-winning Fairy House Series of books has popularized the building of fairy houses across the United States and around the world.

An advocate for getting children outside and into nature, Kane has shared the magic of tiny house building for more than 15 years through her books, workshops, and videos.

Kane, a Rochester native and PittsfordSutherland alumna, first encountered fairy houses in the late 1990s on Monhegan Island off the coast of Maine.

The island has a “magical” forest called

Cathedral Woods that is littered with fairy structures.

“I saw a little girl working on her fairy house and so I started to create one myself,” said Kane, who wrote her first book in 2000. “Then 9/11 happened and there was a need for people to get outside and do things with their families.” So began the Fairy House Series of books.

In each of her illustrated storybooks, Kane combines her love of nature with a touch of fairy magic.

Her stories emphasize a respect for nature and provide a way for children to learn about and become part of the natural world around them.

Enter the 2017 Corn Hill Arts Fairy House Tour Families, individuals, and teams may participate. Entry deadline is June 16, 2017. For a full list of requirements visit cornhillartsfestival.com.

Experience Fairy House Magic Day Saturday, May 13, at The Strong, Tracy Kane will be reading and signing her books and sharing fairy-house building tips.

Included with museum admission, visitors may create a fairy dwelling to take home, and dress up like fairy or wood sprite.

Author Tracy Kane poses with some young fans of her Fairy House Series.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

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The Burdick family collects pieces all year long for their whimsical fairy houses Claire Burdick and her family have been taking part in the Fairy House Tour since 2015.

They collect treasures from woods, trails, and parks at different times of the year, and fairy-house construction takes up the dining room table for the better part of two weeks before the Corn Hill Fairy House Tour.

It’s a collaborative family effort with mom, dad, and their two children each adding bits and pieces to the structure.

“We create a basic structure and then add everything on top of that,” Claire said. “My husband will come home from work and say, ‘What about this?’ or ‘What about that?’ The kids will have their own suggestions, too.”

For their 2015 fairy house, they knew that they wanted to build a structure with a pedestal. It was a true team effort. Grandparents in another part of the state offered up a tree branch for their perfect fairy house.

Last year’s entry was a cave-like structure.

Their entries for both 2015 and 2016 have been awarded “Most Whimsical” and went on to be displayed in the Strong National Museum of Play.

“My son was so excited when our house was displayed in The Strong,” Claire said. “He thought we were famous.”

The first people to buy books and get into fairy-house construction?

Grandparents.

“They want something to do with their grandchildren that doesn’t involve video games or electronics,” Kane said.

“More importantly, they want to create memories with their grandchildren.”

For the most part, everything visible on the fairy house must be natural.

Inspired by Kane, websites like Pinterest, Etsy, and Inhabitat are full of kits and ideas to make the perfect home for neighborhood fairies and woodland creatures. She noted her Fairy House Series of books inspires kids to make one in their own backyard.

This summer on July 8 and 9, the Corn Hill Arts Festival will celebrate its fifth year of presenting the Fairy House Tour, based on Kane’s books.

Dozens of fairy houses made by local organizations and families are publicly displayed free of charge and prizes are awarded for Best Use of Natural Material, Most Unique, and Most Whimsical, plus a People’s Choice Award.

Last summer 7,000 people toured the display of more than 50 miniature houses. The 10 winning creations (three in each category plus People’s Choice) will then be displayed throughout July at the Strong National Museum of Play.

The Corn Hill Arts Festival is one of many Fairy House Tours held around the country. Featuring more than 200 fairy houses, the Portsmouth Fairy House Tour in New Hampshire is the world’s largest and has raised more than $200,000 for local charities over the past 10 years.

Fairy House Tours also take place in Vermont, Connecticut, North Carolina, and Georgia. Kane’s Fairy House Series of books also has spawned a ballet and a musical.

Creating a fairy house is an ideal rainy-day activity for kids and adults.

It involves planning, sensibly sourcing materials, problem solving, concentration, and lots of creativity.

Kane worked for many years at WXXI and New Hampshire Public TV as a graphic designer. She now divides her time between Maine (where fairy-house building first started) and North Carolina.

So what’s it like to have the Fairy House Tour in her hometown?

“Rochester creates just the most amazing houses,” she said. “The Fairy House Tour took off faster here than any other place.”

Learn more about Kane and her creations at fairyhouses.com.

Building your own fairy house • Fairy houses come in all shapes and sizes. Be creative. Plan carefully and put a bit of “you” in it.

• Location, location, location. Fairies don’t like to be bothered, so build your fairy house in a quiet place away from roads or busy pathways.

• Fairies are ecologically responsible. They only like natural materials to build and furnish their houses. Use things like sticks, bark, nuts, rocks, pebbles, pinecones and moss. (Remember: fairies also don’t like to harm anything that’s growing, so don’t pick flowers or other living things to furnish your house.)

• Wood fairies and beach fairies like different things. Use materials found in the area where you are planning on building your fairy house.

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Planning a party?

It’s Party Time!

Visit RocParent.com for out party planning guide and more!

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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

What is the mission of Spectrum Creative Arts?

When we opened in 2013, the Spectrum team set out on a mission to serve our vibrant and diverse community by offering the highest quality creative arts programming to individuals of all ages and all ability levels.

We believe that everyone is an artist and we are proud to offer our students a wide range of constantly evolving instruction and programming. We aim to inspire and empower our students and staff through active participation in the creative arts.

Not only are we a safe place for young artists to set and reach goals while discovering unprecedented potential, we’re a place for members of our community to practice and hone their craft.

Eight-year-old Anna sings “How Far I’ll Go” under the instruction of Spectrum Director Megan Resig at the recent Sweetheart Serenade concert.

How and when did Spectrum get its start?

Spectrum’s creation story is a true testament to the power of community-building through the arts. Spectrum’s founders Megan Resig and Noa Ferguson are boardcertified music therapists who created the organization after combining their individual therapy practices, expanding their offerings to arts therapy and music and art

instruction.

We opened our doors at 3300 Monroe Ave. in September 2013 with eight staff members and a handful of students. We now work with more than 20 therapists and instructors and serve more than 500 students in the Finger Lakes region, ranging in age from 6-months-old to over 80 years old.

What kinds of programming and services does Spectrum offer to local families?

What sets Spectrum apart is the immeasurably diverse set of skills our instructors and therapists bring to the table.

We offer a range of programs, from ancient batik fabric dyeing classes to harp to standard voice lessons. Many of our instructors are board-certified therapists specializing in a broad range of arts therapy techniques and have had careers in their respective creative arts fields.

We provide group class instruction in the community as well as onsite instruction at Spectrum for individuals and groups.

We’re very excited to announce our new summer mini-camp — Creative Crusaders, happening the week of July 17 to 21. Kids ages 8 to-11 will undertake a journey that begins with an unsolved mystery of a great art

“There is simply nothing more inspiring to us than watching our students discover their own creative potential and develop their identity as an artist.”

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heist. Each day, campers will discover clues leading them on an adventure around the world, where they will explore art, music, dance, photography, and culinary arts as they pursue an infamous art burglar. The camp will culminate in an interactive production open to parents and the community.

Share Spectrum’s vision for the future.

Spectrum is passionate about becoming a leader in the Rochester community for inclusion and creative arts education.

There is simply nothing more inspiring to us than watching our students discover their own creative potential and develop their identity as an artist. As we grow, we hope to continue to be a place that celebrates diversity and cultivates community.

Tell us about Spectrum’s partnerships in the community.

We are very excited to partner with several local businesses and organizations that are truly helping to further the growth of our artistic community.

We’ve loved working with the Rochester Brainery to host several monthly workshop classes like Sound Recording, Art Journaling, and Play Reading, all taught

by Spectrum instructors.

Our team members provide services to a number of community organizations, including several school districts, adult-care facilities, preschool programs (such as the JCC), nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and psychiatric programs.

Spectrum is also passionate about supporting the education and training of future creative arts professionals. We are an active practicum site for students studying at Nazareth College and have university affiliations with Berklee College of Music, Slippery Rock University, and SUNY Fredonia.

We believe that a commitment to environmental consciousness goes handin-hand with community building. The Rochester community annually takes part in Spectrum’s Eco-Art Challenge, an environmentally friendly showcase of original art. This year’s mouth-watering theme was garbage plates. Participants created original artistic interpretations of our city’s favorite dish, the garbage plate, using recycled and disposable materials.

Where can parents learn more and get involved?

To learn more about classes, lessons, Creative Crusaders Summer Camp, and other programming, visit us online at spectrumcreativearts.org, find us on Facebook, or call us at (585) 383-1999.

We thank Spectrum Co-Founder and Director Megan Resig for sharing these answers to our questions about Spectrum Creative Arts so we could shine this much-deserved spotlight on their work, team, and programs.

Spectrum Art Department Chair Ben Sheridan, left, is having fun painting banners with instructors Molly, Wade, and J.P. PHOTOS PROVIDED

BY SPECTRUM CREATIVE ARTS

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CURATED

CALENDAR A selection of things to see and do in May and June

Kids Getting Fit: at the Y and The Strong Westside YMCA Kids Triathlon Sunday, May 7 | Noon-3 p.m.

This is a fun three-event race for kids ages 6-12. All fitness levels are welcome. Race includes a 10-minute indoor pool swim, approximate 1-mile bike ride (bring your own bike) and an approximate 1-mile walk/run outside.

The registration cost for an individual is $18 or $54 for a three-person relay team.

Aerial Adventure Park at Bristol Mountain.

Where: 920 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624 More info: rochesterymca.org/westside Kids Fit Day at The Strong Museum Saturday, June 3 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Run, hop, or slide into the museum for a day filled with fitness fun! Get active in the Fit Kids Fun Zone and move your muscles with foursquare and hopscotch.

This family-friendly event will give you an opportunity to learn more about the City of Rochester Department of Recreation and Youth Services, Foodlink Curbside Market and the Wegmans Passport to Family Wellness program. Included with museum admission.

Where: One Manhattan Square, Rochester, 14607 More info: museumofplay.org Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures Mobile Park June 15 to 25 Swing in and test your mettle at the Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventures Mobile Park at The Strong. Embark on an indoor, actionpacked adventure on a 26-foot-wide endurance zone! The Aerial Adventures Mobile Park is for children ages 4–14. Included with museum admission.

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Outdoor Fun at Letchworth and Bristol Learn to Catch a Fish at Letchworth State Park Saturday, May 28 | Noon-4 p.m.

Family Picnic Carnival-style event featuring games, activities, educational workshops, free fishing (no license required), free lunch and door prizes. Presented in conjunction with DEC and Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Where: Trailside Lodge, Letchworth State Park, Castile, 14427 More info: www.letchworthpark. com/events.htm Aerial Adventure Park at Bristol Mountain Open now! Check website for details Seven Course Park: Set in the trees at the summit of Bristol Mountain. This attraction has more 130 thrilling tree-to-tree elements including swaying bridges, mini-zip lines, cargo nets, a snowboard, skateboard, suspended wall and a variety of unique bridge structures. This course is for ages 8 and older. The ability levels range from beginner

to advanced and the courses are referred to by a color code to represent the skill level. All of the courses are connected to a twostory treehouse hub.

Kids Park: Two fun courses for kids ages 4 to 7 located six-toeight feet off the ground with a variety of gently swaying bridges, a rock climbing wall, suspended tree houses and a platform to ground zip line experience. Also a great experience for kids’ birthday parties.

Zip Line Canopy Tour: This is the newest Aerial Adventure attraction and the only yearround adventure attraction. This is a three-hour guided zip line tour nestled in the forest canopy near the summit. Groups range in size from 8 to 12 depending on the time of year.

Where: 5662 NY-64, Canandaigua, 14424 More info: Reservations are requested via website bristolmountainadventures.com or by calling (585) 374-1180.

CURATED CALENDAR Family stage shows in May and June Stunt Dog Experience

Charlotte’s Web

Callahan Theater at Nazareth College Kodak Center Studio Theatre Saturday, May 6 | 7-8:30 p.m.

Friday, May 26 at 7 p.m.

Paws down — this could be the most Saturday, May 27 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 28 at 2 p.m. doggone fun your family has ever had! Since 1999, this cast of twoand four-legged performers has delighted audiences of all ages with some of the most incredible stunts ever performed, including amazing tricks, big air maneuvers, comedy antics, dancing, and agility and athletic feats. These talented and lovable stars — all rescued from pounds and shelters — have been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Late Show With David Letterman, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and more.

Tickets: $20 to $35 and can be purchased at the Nazareth College box office.

Where: 4235 East Ave., Rochester, 14618 More info: www2.naz.edu/arts-center

RAPA Family Theatre presents Charlotte’s Web, which pens the door to a magical barnyard world where a young girl named Fern spends her free time with Wilbur the pig.

Charlotte, the large grey spider, befriends Wilbur and helps him deal with the shocking news that his life will soon end as bacon on someone’s plate.

Charlotte goes as far as coming up with an interesting plan that this spider could only carry out with the help of the other barnyard animals to help Wilbur escape death. Stay tuned after the show to meet the characters.

Tickets: $10 for children ages 12 and under/$20 adults.

Where: 200 W. Ridge Road, Rochester, 14615 More info: kodakcenter.org/shows

Viktoria Grimmy will perform aerial tricks at JCC CenterStage June 3-4. PROVIDED PHOTO

The Great DuBois Masters of Variety JCC CenterStage Saturday, June 3 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Sunday, June 4 at 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Michael DuBois’ Solo Circus and The Amazing Viktoria Grimmy are returning to JCC to amaze the audience once again with The Great DuBois. This show will feature new tricks and routines full of comedy.

Tickets: $16 children/$20 adults (discount for JCC members) Where: 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 14618 More info: jccrochester.org/tickets

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CURATED CALENDAR Where: 1209 Bay Road, Webster, 14580 More info: rochesterymca.org/bayview

Imagine RIT PROVIDED PHOTO

Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Festival

Science and Innovation STEM Night at the Bayview YMCA Friday, May 5 | 6-8 p.m.

Check out STEM projects from our Before and After School Programs, robotics, art, hands-on activities, and LIVE Science from the University of Rochester. This is a free event and open to the whole community.

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Music performances for kids and families RPO Tiny Tots Concerts

Saturday, May 6 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Tuesday, May 16, to Friday, May 19

Imagine RIT: Innovation and Creativity Festival is a campus-wide event that showcases the innovative and creative spirit of RIT students, faculty and staff.

Visitors experience the breadth and depth of RIT through interactive presentations, hands-on demonstrations, exhibitions, and research projects set up throughout campus.

Multiple performance stages with live music and entertainment are also a hit with visitors of all ages. The event features 400 exhibits related to science and technology on the campus of Rochester Institute of Technology and is free and open to the public.

Is your toddler interested in musical instruments? The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra presents Tiny Tots Concerts for kids ages 3 to 6. These 40-minute concerts will introduce children to the instrumental families of the orchestra, as well as some basic musical concepts. During these concerts, youngsters engage in participatory activities, learn basic music terms, how to listen, and the instruments of the orchestra.

Where: One Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, 14623 More info: rit.edu/imagine/

Where: Locations and times vary More info: Advance reservations are required. Call (585) 454-7311, ext.

235.; rpo.org

CURATED CALENDAR RPO’s OrKiDStra 100th Anniversary of America’s National Parks Hochstein Performance Hall Sunday, May 21 | 2 p.m.

Genesee Country Village & Museum PROVIDED PHOTO

Celebrate the beauty of America’s National Parks with photography and music by composer Stephen Lias. Walk through the gates of the Arctic and Rocky Mountain National Park, plus hear Grofé’s Grand Canyon Suite.

Tickets: $13 children/$17 adults can be purchased online at rpo.org, at Wegmans, or by calling (585) 454-2100.

Where: 50 N. Plymouth Ave., Rochester, 14614 More info: rpo.org

Let’s go to the museum!

Exhibitions and events in May and June at Rochester area museums: Strong National Museum of Play More info: museumofplay.org Orchids in Bloom Month of May Discover more than 150 orchids from Central and South America, Asia, and Africa blooming among hundreds of butterflies in Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden. Included with museum admission and Dancing Wings admission.

Storytime Club: Animal Pals Every Monday | 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Readings of classic children’s tales every Monday. Have your Storytime Club passport punched once during each visit — collect five punches and receive a free children’s book!

Included with museum admission.

World Video Game Hall of Fame Celebration Saturday, May 6 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday, May 7 | 1-4 p.m.

Celebrate the newest inductees into the World Video Game Hall of Fame and revel in a weekend filled with activities themed around past inductees such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Super Mario Bros. Included with museum admission.

Fairy House Magic Saturday, May 13 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Play with whimsical building blocks and woodland animal and fairy puppets and learn how to make a fairy house in

nature. Included with museum admission.

Have a Ball Exhibit Opening Celebration Saturday, June 24 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday, June 25 | 1-4 p.m.

Bounce through the history of the ball and learn about the importance of ball play as a universal social, cultural, and human experience. Experience interact ive performances by Flower City Vaudeville each day 1 to 4 p.m. Included with museum admission.

Genesee Country Village & Museum More info: gcv.org Opening Day & Mother’s Day: All Chocolate Weekend Saturday and Sunday, May 13 and 14 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Celebrate the role of mothers throughout history and watch the village come alive with springtime activities that will shower mom with love and affection.

Chocolate-making demonstrations and tastings both days. Included with museum admission. Mothers admitted free on Mother’s Day. Celtic Faire Saturday, June 17 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Celebrate the culture, history and traditions of the Scots and Irish through musical performances by regional pipe bands, dance demonstrations from local schools and an array of authentic food and drinks.

War of 1812 & Jane Austen Weekend Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The historic village comes to life with re-enactors portraying shopkeepers,

housewives, merchants, and soldiers amidst the sounds of fifes and drums; cannons and muskets; and Austenera music and dancing. Included with museum admission. Fathers free all weekend.

Memorial Art Gallery More info: mag.rochester.edu Asian Pacific American Heritage Family Fun Day Sunday, May 7 | Noon-5 p.m.

Several times each year, the Memorial Art Gallery opens its doors and offers Rochester area families and community members the opportunity to learn more about specific cultures.

These events for all ages feature handson art activities, music and dance demonstrations, storytelling, and a variety of cultural displays. Our Family Days series is sponsored by the Gallery Council of the Memorial Art Gallery. Suggested donation $5 per family.

Rochester Museum & Science Center More info: rmsc.org Rochester in 1838 Diorama Live Restoration All summer Get a peek behind the scenes at a unique “living exhibit” featuring the real-time restoration and enhancement of the RMSC’s beloved “Rochester in 1838” diorama. In commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal groundbreaking, experts work to restore and stabilize the 70-year-old display during museum hours for all to see. Included with museum admission.

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